PNT Announces 1:1 Matching Fundraising Challenge

With record-breaking ticket sales on the books for its 2010-2011 season, and top award nominations again this year, Performance Network adds exciting fundraising news to its roster of successes. A generous $16,000 grant from the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation Richard P. Whitker Charitable Fund will enable PNT donors to double their gift through matching funds, now through August 15th.

Executive Director Carla Milarch said "We're so grateful to everyone involved in making this possible. With the momentum of a great year under our belt, we have the opportunity to finish the fiscal year (September 30) with a comfortable cash reserve, ensuring that our 30th anniversary season is an absolute artistic knockout."

The theatre's upcoming season will feature numerous sought-after plays, such as "God of Carnage," by Yasmina Reza and "Red" by John Logan, a play about the popular but tormented artist Mark Rothko. Topping the success of shows like this season's "The Drowsy Chaperone" and "The Piano Lesson" won't be easy, but Milarch adds "in a strong financial position, we are able to dedicate even more resources and energy to making great theatre!"

As a non-profit, ticket sales cover about 50% of the theatre's costs, and PNT relies on community support for the rest, roughly $400,000 a year. Development Director Christina Mooney says "Our donors help us cover all of the added costs of being professional. With about $100,000 still to secure this year, we're asking ALL of our patrons and supporters to consider a gift. With these matching funds available, they can double their impact by donating now."

PNT is currently accepting donations of any size over the phone at (734) 663-0681 and on the website at:
www.performancenetwork.org.

Founded in 1981, Performance Network Theatre has grown from a fledgling company to Ann Arbor's only resident, professional theatre. The Network reaches 40,000 theatre patrons and children each year through the year-round Professional Series and The Children's Theatre Network. Performance Network also presents the Fireside Festival of New Works and a series of classes on theatre-related topics. The Network provides uncompromising artistic leadership in the region and produces works that engage, challenge and inspire audiences and artists.

The Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation is dedicated to enriching the quality of life in its region through knowledgeable leadership, engaged grantmaking, and creative partnerships with donors - to make philanthropic investments and build endowment. Founded in 1963, AAACF manages more than $60 million in assets on its community's behalf and has awarded more than $21 million in grants and scholarships - $1.7 million in 2010. AAACF's success is a tribute to the thousands of community members whose continued support help AAACF meet the changing needs of its community - For good. For ever.

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